Make meaningful connections. What does this mean?

The simple answer: make human connections. I have read books on building professional networks and I have found that many suggested a very robotic way of connecting. The books often suggest being very rigid and direct. However, people enjoy conversations that are not always related to their work or profession. Even in the most professional settings, I have found ways to crack a joke or to get a person’s perspective on a more relaxed topic. This is important because it helps you to connect to the more human parts of the person and go beyond their title.

Now, boundaries are still important. I am not advising that you go asking about personal family matters. Rather, I would suggest striking up a conversation about a more general topic. I have found that most people can relate to a topic about sport, fitness, music or the arts. These are what I call ‘safe topics’ because they are easy to speak about and share opinions around. Ensure that you are knowledgeable and passionate about any topic that you choose, because if you are not, your conversation will seem disingenuous.

If you want to make a connection, you must work on your conversation skills. I often teach sessions on networking and connecting, that go much more in depth. Choosing the conversation is only the first step in networking. There are many more elements that help you to form a strong human connection. You must ask the right questions to keep your conversations flowing and learn how to listen attentively. Always listen more than you speak. Additionally, you have to learn the best ways to follow up on the connections that you have established. All these skills are strengthened, once you practice. Speak and connect with as many people as you can today and remember every connection is important. It does not matter if it is the security guard or the CEO, they all have something unique to offer. Happy connecting!